Vitamin E (or tocopherol) is a group of eight different compounds which aid antioxidation in the body. It is best known for its fat soluble and antioxidant properties making it an essential vitamin for the body. Out of the eight tocopherols, alpha-tocopherols are most commonly available due to their ability to fight free radicals and are also better absorbed by the body.

Why Vitamin E?

Vitamin E is a fat-soluble vitamin that helps neutralise free radicals, which damage cells and might contribute to cardiovascular diseases, cancer, liver damage and other ailments. It also helps in improving metabolism and the immune system, along with boosting stamina and vitality. Vitamin E works best with Vitamin C to neutralise free radicals and protect our cells.

Sources of Vitamin E

For adults, the recommended daily intake of Vitamin E is 12 milligrams which can be obtained by having a balanced, nutritious diet. The natural sources of Vitamin E include vegetable oils, peanuts, almonds, meat, cereal, eggs, leafy vegetables and fruits. However, if you are unable to get the required intake, you can turn to taking capsules after seeking guidance from your physician.

Vitamin E plays a significant role in aiding healthy and glowing skin which is why it is incorporated in many skincare and hair care products. Here are some ways in which this ‘magic’ capsule can do wonders to your skin and hair –

Benefits for Skin

1. Serves as a natural sunscreen

Vitamin E’s antioxidant properties protect the skin from harmful ultraviolet rays. While they may not be a complete replacement to your sunscreen, they do protect your skin from drying and can also relieve you of minor sunburn damages.

2. Has anti-aging properties

Vitamin E is known to act as a natural agent to prevent new lines from appearing on the face. Age catches up and one can’t stop that, but regular intake of Vitamin E can surely help in delaying the process. The production of collagen reduces with age which leads to the skin losing elasticity and firmness thereby giving rise to wrinkles, fine lines and sagging skin. Vitamin E has anti-aging properties because it helps promote collagen production which speedens up cell regeneration, thereby maintaining elastic and firm skin.

3. Aids in skin brightening

Vitamin E leads to the growth of free radical fighting antioxidants which reduce skin damage that may have resulted in hyper-pigmentation leading to dark spots. Vitamin E oil helps in skin cell regeneration and subsequent disappearance of scars and blemishes due to the production of new collagen.

4. Treats stretch marks

Stretch marks can be quite an eye sore. Don’t let them come in between you and your favorite clothes.

Stretch marks appear due to excessive stretch of skin fibers. While the skin naturally tries to repair itself, the process is slowed down by the free radicals. How can Vitamin E help this you ask? As they help in cell regeneration, they help in treating stretch marks. Apply the oil from Vitamin E capsules to the affected area and you will see them fade away over the course of time.

5. Keeps skin moisturised

Do you suffer from chapped lips and dry skin? Well, you guessed it right – Vitamin E can come to your rescue here. It acts as a fabulous moisturiser as it contains antioxidants that not only moisturize your skin but also leave a healthy glow on your skin. Apply Vitamin E oil twice a week for improved skin texture and softness.

6. Acts as a cleanser

Being a heavy emollient, Vitamin E effectively removes dirt and other impurities from your skin while maintaining its pH balance. Use a few drops of oil on a cotton ball to clean it up.

7. Strengthens Nails

Apply Vitamin E oil on your cuticles and nails before you go to bed and you will be surprised to see the effect it has! Not only does it treat brittle nails by improving hydration but it also promotes nail growth due to improved blood circulation.

Benefits for Hair

1. Treats split ends

Split ends are signs of damaged and dry hair. If not taken care of, they can affect your hair shaft, making your hair appear limp and unhealthy. Vitamin E oil can be used to treat this common hair problem as it nourishes the hair, reducing hair breakage and split ends.

2. Stimulates healthy hair growth

Mix this oil with another one such as coconut or jojoba oil and massage it on your scalp. This improves the blood circulation in your scalp and leads to the growth of healthier looking hair.

3. Prevents pre-mature graying

The most common reason behind graying hair is oxidative stress which occurs when the body is unable to produce enough antioxidants to treat the damage caused by accumulated free radicals. Vitamin E, a natural antioxidant helps prevent this process thereby reducing the changes of graying hair.

4. Normalises oil production

The main cause of hair fall is the excessive production of oil. Excess oil tends to clog hair follicles leading to issues such as dandruff and itchy scalp. Vitamin E fights this by providing adequate amount of moisture, thereby balancing out the pH levels.

5. Conditions hair

Regular exposure to chemicals and heat leads to increased hair fall and dry hair. Use Vitamin E to combat this problem owing to its natural hair conditioning properties. It seals moisture in the hair shaft and keeps the hair moisturised, leaving you with smooth and lustrous locks.

Side Effects of Vitamin E

While Vitamin E has plenty benefits, an overdose of it can lead to dangerous repercussions. Hence, be extra cautious about the dosage you consume.

Some common side effects of Vitamin E overdose are –

Nausea and vomiting

Diarrhea

Headache

Rash

Fatigue or weakness

Blurry vision

Taking severe high doses of Vitamin E supplements can also increase risks of bleeding. In case you notice any of these symptoms, stop taking the supplements and consult your doctor immediately.

Like any other medicine, it is essential to consume Vitamin E supplements only after consulting a doctor because you may also be allergic to some ingredients in these supplements which can in turn have an adverse effect on your health.